Rüsselsheim. The current Combo, Vivaro and Movano model generations comprise the most sophisticated and versatile light commercial vehicle portfolio Opel has ever offered. With more than 330 variants available ex-factory, and many more from Opel- recommended conversion specialists, there is a product to fit almost every conceivable requirement in gross vehicle weight (GVW) categories up to 4.5 tons.

Opel/Vauxhall light commercial vehicles are sold throughout western and central Europe, with total sales last year exceeding 88,000 units, equivalent to a market share of 3.21 percent. Over the last 10 years (2003 - 2012), a total of almost 1.4 million vehicles were sold.

Opel/Vauxhall’s largest markets are Germany and the UK, together accounting for 45 percent of sales, followed by France, Spain, Holland, Italy and Belgium. The biggest-selling model is Vivaro (42,749 units sold last year, 9.33% share of Van-D segment), followed by Combo (21,869 units, 2.92 percent of Van-B segment) and Movano (13,579 units, 2.33 percent of Van-E segment), with the Corsa and AstraVans together accounting just over 9,000 units.

Vivaro is built in multiple variations at Vauxhall’s Luton plant in the UK as part of a joint venture with Renault. Over 70% of production is exported and this state-of-the-art facility will also be the production location for the next generation Vivaro, to be launched in 2014. Movano, also part of the joint venture with Renault, is built in Batilly, France and Combo is built in Bursa, Turkey in a co-operation with Fiat.

Latest LCV portfolio with state-of-the-art technologies

All model lines are focused on delivering low operating costs, with state-of-the-art powertrains, including Euro 5 compliant diesel engines and the introduction of fuel-saving Start/Stop functionality for Combo and Movano.

Driving comfort is also enhanced with the availability of Easytronic automated manual transmission for all three models, while new infotainment systems for Vivaro and Movano include Bluetooth connectivity and the option of SD card-based navigation with top-of-the-line systems.

Standard safety equipment for all models includes a driver’s airbag, three-point front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution.

ESP is also available and comes as standard for Combo passenger versions, as well as Vivaro Life variants and Movanos with rear-wheel drive.

Combo: Best-in-class for load-carrying performance

The fourth-generation Combo sets new standards in the European Van-B segment with its wide variety of models, cutting-edge engine portfolio and best-in-class functionality.

The extensive model range comprises 108 variants and meets a broad range of needs, from business and trade use to versatile, multi-purpose family and leisure requirements. The panel van and five-seat passenger ranges come with short (2,755 mm) or long (3,105 mm) wheelbases. A high roof is now available for all panel vans, while it is also fitted to a seven-seat passenger variant which comes with the short wheelbase. The latest line-up includes the addition of a new panel van variant: the largest Combo yet, combining a long wheelbase with a high roof.

The Opel Combo offers a diverse and competitive range of powertrains, including four diesel engines, one gasoline unit and a CNG version (Compressed Natural Gas). The 1.3 CDTI, the 1.6 CDTI (105 hp) and the 1.6 CDTI (90 hp) with Easytronic automated manual transmission are also available with extremely fuel-efficient and environmentally sound ecoFLEX technology and include Start/Stop functionality.

The 1.4-liter naturally-aspirated gasoline engine delivers 70 kW/95 hp and the turbocharged CNG version, which can run on gasoline or natural gas, offers 88 kW/120 hp with an impressive driving range of up to 750 km per tank of CNG (with optional extra tank).

Three trim levels are offered, Essentia, Enjoy and Cosmo. The entry-level Essentia specification includes a height-adjustable steering column and powered front windows, as well as ESP with a Hill Holder system.

Vivaro: Popular all-rounder includes Combi Life variant with flexible seating

Now in its second generation, Vivaro has racked up well over 500,000 sales across Europe and is one of the most popular vans in the 3.0 ton GVW class. Like its Movano big brother, a wide range of ex-factory variants (42 in all) means it can offer the right solution for many different transport needs.

It is available in two wheelbases and two van roof heights, with a maximum cargo capacity of 8.4 m3 and a maximum payload of 1,207 kg. The body range comprises panel vans with a single or double cab, a platform chassis to provide tailor-made transportation solutions and Combi passenger variants, such as the Tour and Life models with all-round glazing. The up-market Tour provides seating for nine occupants, while the MPV-like Life has a flexible, four-rail seating system with a bench which folds flat into a berth, as well as sliding and removable seats.

The distinctive, domed ‘Jumbo roof’ of the Vivaro’s cab creates a sense of interior speciousness, while giving excellent visibility and making it easier to get in and out of the vehicle. The cab’s innovative, intelligent design includes 12 storage compartments for everyday items in addition to a center console.

All variants are powered by a 2.0 CDTI engine, with a choice of 66 kW/90 hp or 84 kW/114 hp power ratings. Both are available with environmental ecoFLEX technology, as well as an Easytronic automated six-speed manual gearbox for the 114 hp engine. ESP is optional, and standard for Life variants.

A smart-looking Color Line Edition for panel van and combi versions is the latest addition to the range. It features a choice of silver or grey metallic and black or sage pearlescent paint finishes, together with dark privacy glass for the side windows and tinted headlamp units – all finished off with 16-inch, gloss black alloy wheels.

Movano: Market leader for adaptability

In its second generation, Movano is Opel’s versatility champion. It provides more ex-factory variants – 188 in all – than any other vehicle in the light commercial market and comes in three wheelbases, including rear-wheel drive with single or dual real wheels, as well as front-wheel drive.

The extensive line-up for Opel’s contender in the 4.5 ton GVW category includes: panel vans (available in four vehicle lengths and three roof heights), combi versions, chassis and crew cabs variants (available in three vehicle lengths) and platform cab versions (available in three lengths and two roof heights).

Movano panel vans offer best-in-class accessibility, loading ease, standing height and cargo capacity (up to 17 m3). On all variants, the standard sliding side door is large enough to enable Euro pallets to be loaded/unloaded sideways.

Movanos are powered by a 2.3 CDTI engine with a choice of three configurations, giving 74 kW/100 hp, 92 kW/125 hp or 110 kW/150 hp. Start/Stop functionality, which reduces fuel consumption and emissions by up to eight percent, is now available for 100 hp and 125 hp panel van variants. A six-speed manual gearbox is fitted as standard and Opel’s Easytronic automated transmission is optionally available with the two more powerful engines.

Ride comfort and loading access can be further improved by pneumatic suspension. It is available for front-wheel drive panel vans and lowers the vehicle by 20 centimeters, or raises it by seven centimeters.

ESP is standard with rear-wheel drive and optional with front-wheel drive. Rear-wheel drive Movanos can also be ordered with a limited-slip differential.

Opel-certified third party conversions: Meeting special needs

Opel light commercial vehicles are configured to meet a diverse range of business, trade or community needs through a multitude of conversions and specialist adaptations.

While most popular are available ex-factory, vehicles can also be tailor-made for specific needs with Opel-certified conversions from third party specialists.

The current certification program began early last year to assure the delivery of Opel’s high quality standards. About 100 different conversions, from a growing number of around 50 partner converters across Europe, have already been certified by Opel’s Conversions Engineering Team. And by the end of 2013, Opel plans to certify at least another 100 conversions.

Certified conversions for all vehicles include the fitment of van racking and shelving, refrigerated or isotherm bodies for the hygienic transportation of foodstuffs in line with EU regulations and special delivery van configurations. There are also specialist adaptations for the needs of the emergency services (police, ambulance and fire brigade) and for carrying wheelchair passengers, with ramps, hoists and tailgates.

Vivaro and Movano can be equipped in various specifications as vending vans, or fitted with side racks to carry sheet glass and large panels or as special crew-vans. Other bespoke modifications for Movano include special box bodies, in sizes and specifications not supplied by the factory, and various tail-lifts, dropside and tipper bodies with light-duty cranes, and specialist tools and materials storage solutions. The Movano can also be converted as a low loader for car transportation, a horsebox, a school bus, or equipped with a ‘cherry picker’ hydraulic platform. Air suspension is available and, when extra traction is required, it can even be supplied with all-wheel drive. In addition to its many factory-supplied formats, bespoke modifications for Combo also include special low-floor conversions as a WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) for disabled passengers transport.

Opel’s base vehicle warranty remains valid for certified conversions and the converter is required to offer a comparable warranty for the modifications involved. The certification process ensures that Opel engineers approve the adaptation work, plus an agreement along with a certificate are issued to confirm adherence to Opel conversion guidelines and quality standards. Vehicles and Opel-certified third party conversions can be ordered and supplied throughout the Opel/Vauxhall dealer network.